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| Staff Writer |
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Hall of Fame jockey John Velazquez is eagerly anticipating his return to Saudi Arabia for the Diriyah International Jockeys' Challenge, where he'll compete against an elite international roster at King Abdulaziz Racecourse on February 21.
The three-time Kentucky Derby winner's connection with Saudi racing spans nearly three decades, having first competed there in 1998. "I have been coming to Saudi Arabia since 1998 and have won some of the nice races over there," reflected the decorated Puerto Rican-born rider. "I am very honoured to be part of the event and it is nice to be invited to take on jockeys from all over the world."
The 53-year-old champion, who has amassed over 6,700 career victories, has witnessed the remarkable transformation of racing in the region. "It has changed a lot over the years and I am looking forward to coming back and seeing how it has developed again," said Velazquez, adding: "They have done an incredible amount for horse racing and they should be proud of what they have achieved."
The 21-times Breeders' Cup victor will face 13 competitors in the four-race series, including Belgian star Christophe Soumillon and Longines World's Best Jockey James McDonald. "I have ridden against the likes of Christophe before but not James so I am looking forward to that," Velazquez noted.
Future Prospects
His recent appearance at the 2024 Saudi Cup meeting saw him guide the Jimmy Jerkins-trained My Frankel to second place in the International Handicap. Looking ahead, Velazquez is expected to partner with Straight No Chaser for trainer Dan Blacker in the Riyadh Dirt Sprint presented by Saudi National Bank, following their triumphant collaboration in the Breeders' Cup Sprint at Del Mar last November.
"I hope to pick up a couple of extra rides on the Saturday – I think I might have one in one of the sprint races and maybe one in the Saudi Cup too – but I am not sure yet. Fingers crossed!" he concluded.